NASA's Bennu Samples Offer New Insights into Life's Origins

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NASA's recent analysis of asteroid Bennu samples reveals vital components believed to be fundamental to the development of life. According to two studies published on January 30, 2025, the samples, weighing approximately 120 grams and collected by the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft in 2020, contain essential building blocks of life.

Initial examinations provided evidence of high-carbon content and water. Continued research indicates that evaporated water from Bennu's parent asteroid left behind "the raw ingredients of life," noted Tim McCoy, a curator at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, and a co-author of one study. He stated, “We have discovered that next step on a pathway to life.”

The findings suggest that Bennu, which formed roughly 65 million years ago, once contained liquid water, leading to a “briny broth” rich in salts and minerals. These minerals include compounds unseen in previous outer space samples. Researchers believe the insights gained from these samples could bolster theories regarding extraterrestrial origins of life on Earth.

The research team will also explore other extraterrestrial bodies, including the dwarf planet Ceres and Saturn’s moon Enceladus, for similar compounds.

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